About Paolo

Designer & Bookbinder

Paolo specialises in fine bookbinding, box making, gilding, leather design and other bespoke commissioned work. His work is produced using a wide range of materials to create unique and hand crafted pieces. Paolo has always been intrigued by the traditional bookbinding techniques and materials used by bookbinders over the centuries. His approach to the construction and decorative technique of each book is classic with a modern interpretation of content expressed in the design.

Paolo’s career begun in Italy in 1995 where he worked for 5 years as an apprentice bookbinder and typographer. He then worked for several years as a digital designer in both the print and web industries, focusing on the production of books and magazines. During this period he established skills in desktop publishing and graphic design. In 2007 Paolo moved to London to study bookbinding and book restoration at the London College of Printing. In 2009, after gaining experience from working at Rook’s Books and the Wyvern Bindery, he set up his own studio Festinalente Books.

Paolo now runs his studio Paolo Taddeo – Books & Design in East London as a bookbinder, finisher and gilder. His services include box-making, book restoration and other specialist leather work.

Paolo has attended courses at the Centro del Bel Libro in Ascona, Switzerland and gilding training under Geert van Daal at his Atelier in Holland.

Tuitions & Courses

Paolo is available for one to one teaching and tuition at his studio or for small group workshops at external venues.

Courses are available for all levels of experience, from beginners up to advanced level bookbinders. Skills taught range from simple non-adhesive binding and case binding to leather binding, gold tooling and leather decoration.